Women United 12th Annual Magnolia Luncheon

The 12th Annual Magnolia Luncheon, hosted by United Way of Broward County’s Women United, was held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Each year, the Magnolia Luncheon recognizes women of dignity, strength, and perseverance. This year’s keynote speaker was two-time Paralympic triathlete, swimmer, and former U.S. Army officer Melissa Stockwell.

During this year’s reception and keynote conversation, co-chairs of the annual event, Lonnie Maier and Carol Cutler, and the Women United Chair LaurieAnne Minoff, welcomed more than the 480 community members and supporters in attendance. In addition, President/CEO of United Way of Broward County, Kathleen Cannon, discussed the powerful impact that we can make when we work together in our community.

Keynote Speaker Melissa Stockwell spoke about her experience as a Veteran and how losing her limb created opportunities for her to do things that she never imagined doing with both of her legs. She discussed how turning to sports aided in her recovery and perseverance, where she ultimately became a 3-time Paralympian and a bronze medalist in the sport of Paratriathlon. She also spoke about the power of choice and how to have a different outlook on difficult life situations. She is also the proud mother of two young children.

This year’s honorees included Traci Miller (Woman of Inspiration award) and Heidi Alzate Kaufman (Woman of Promise award). Both Broward County changemakers were awarded for their long-standing, deep commitment to service, uplifting women, and motivating the next wave of leaders in Broward County.

Formed in 2010, Women United was formed to create a network of exceptional women dedicated to building a stronger community. Each year, Women United focuses its efforts on specific priority United Way projects.

Sponsors include: Title Sponsor: Celebrity Cruises; Gold Sponsors: Consolidated Credit and Amazon; Silver Sponsors: JM Family Enterprises, Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, Nicklaus Children’s Health System; Bronze Sponsors: Amerant, American National Bank, Castle Group, Comcast, HealthTrust Workforce Solutions, Holman, Holy Cross Health, Kaufman Rossin, Institute for Life Renovation, Motivational Institute for Behavioral Health, LLC, Susie and Alan B. Levan Family Foundation, Miller Construction Company, NSU Florida, Talen Solutions Right Management, Transworld Business Advisors, UBS, UKG; In-Kind Sponsors: Florida Luxurious Properties, I LOV-ITT Consulting, Memorial Healthcare System, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Perfect Look Photos and Visuals by Momo; Media Sponsor: South Florida Business & Wealth.

High-resolution images can be downloaded here.

About United Way of Broward County
United Way of Broward County is a volunteer driven, community-based, non-profit organization serving Broward County for more than 80 years. United Way of Broward County fights for the Health, Education and Financial Prosperity of EVERY person in our community. United Way of Broward County is the catalyst for change and convener of partnerships that unite the hearts, minds, and resources within the Broward community. For more information, visit www.UnitedWayBroward.org.

About Women United
United Way of Broward County’s Women United is part of a global network of more than 70,000 women in 155 communities across six countries, all dedicated to improving lives and creating stronger communities. Your United Way’s Women United is comprised of 800 women whose contributions go well beyond financial donations: they get involved, shake things up and make a measurable difference in their own backyard and around the world. We encourage you to be part of the solution, and connect with interesting, dynamic women who are making a difference.